EDF4501

Early childhood mathematics, science and technology ( 6 points, SCA Band 0, 0.125 EFTSL)

Leader: Professor M Fleer

Offered:
Peninsula First semester 2005 (Day)
Singapore Term 3 2005 (OCL)

Synopsis: Internationally, early childhood education has moved from framing teaching and learning from a developmental perspective to utilising sociocultural theory. In line with this recent theoretical shift, this unit examines how learning in science, technology and mathematics can be introduced to children following a socio-cultural approach

Objectives: The broad aims of this unit are for you to demonstrate evidence of: 1. developing knowledge and understanding of how young children develop mathematical, scientific and technological understandings, abilities and attitudes; 2. analysing the construction and reproduction of knowledge in mathematics, science and technology and make judgments on the implications of this for young children's learning in these areas; 3. implementing a socio-cultural framework to observe, assess, and document maths, science and technology experiences in an early childhood setting, and 4. confidently be able to assess, plan, prepare and implement appropriate experiences in these areas across a range of early childhood settings following a socio-cultural perspective.

Assessment: Research paper: 50% (2000 words) + Socio-cultural analysis of early childhood science, technology and mathematics: 50% (equivalent to 2000 words)

Contact Hours: Equivalent of 3 hours